From the first pluck of the mbira’s metal keys, Shumbakdzi commands more than melody as she summons memory, resistance and renewal. Her sound is ancestral yet urgent — a rhythmic conversation between past and present that speaks boldly for women, culture and social justice in Zimbabwe’s evolving creative economy.
Born Florence Nyamazana and raised in the culturally rich heartlands of Gokwe, Lioness Shumbakadzi grew up where the mbira is not merely an instrument but a spiritual compass: the voice of ancestors, the heartbeat of ritual and the soul of communal celebration. Immersed in its rhythms from childhood, she nurtured her talent into what has become nationally and globally recognised mbira virtuosity.
Today, Nyamazana stands as a multi-talented cultural practitioner — mbira musician and performer, teacher and mentor, instrument maker, traditional jewellery designer, visual artist, journalist and cultural content creator at Zimbolive TV. Her media work extends beyond storytelling into impact journalism, mobilising medical professionals and resources for women facing period poverty, maternity challenges and the lack of basic newborn care.
“I am a proud cultural ambassador. My mission is to preserve our heritage, create platforms for traditional artists — especially women — and inspire the next generation to find power and identity in their roots.”
Armed with training in digital marketing and cultural management, Nyamazana has strategically positioned traditional music within modern digital spaces, amplifying its relevance and reach.
Her leadership footprint mirrors her artistic influence. She serves as International Cultural Officer and Zimbabwe Chapter National Coordinator for the Pan-African women’s platform 54 African Mamas; Vice President of the Chivavarira National Mbira, Arts and Culture Association; Trustee at the Zimbabwe Artists’ Benevolent Fund; and leader of the Ningadzenharira Cultural Group. She is also an active member of the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Musicians’ Union, anchoring her advocacy in both institutional and grassroots frameworks.
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Like many women in the arts, her journey has not been without trials. One defining moment came in 2014 during a heavily advertised show in Chivhu. Competing with a simultaneous performance by a mainstream hitmaker, the night began with just ten patrons and wavering band morale. Yet persistence prevailed. As the mbira’s hypnotic vibe spread “like veld fire,” audiences poured in, transforming doubt into triumph and reaffirming the power of cultural authenticity.
Nyamazana now champions mbira music as an economic gateway for women, urging creatives to embrace enterprise, collaboration and digital platforms. “Culture is the new currency,” she insists.
With an upcoming album featuring mbira icons Chaka Gwedeza and Takawira Devera, she continues to push boundaries while encouraging women to lead, create and sustain livelihoods through traditional music.
As her mbira echoes across stages and screens, Lioness Shumbakadzi offers a resonant reminder: healing, hope and heritage still reside in our hands — and when women lead culture, culture transforms nations.